Shipment of IP communications-capable smartphones exceeding expectations

Latest figures show that the availability of IP communications-capable smartphones is ahead of the GSMA forecast for 2015. Currently, shipment volumes of IP communications-capable native devices is an estimated 10% ahead of the year to date target.  According to the GSMA, this is a key indicator regarding the use of IP communication technology.

Native devices enable more people to access rich communication features such as VoLTE, HD voice, video and messaging. To date, there has been broad adoption of RCS across device ranges and Operating Systems by OEMs and this is now translating into device shipment volumes. Wider availability will be a significant driver of ongoing customer trial and adoption during the critical introductory period.

The GSMA’s Network 2020 programme is working closely with OEMs to develop and deploy native devices. The programme is leading on several initiatives to make the implementation of native devices more effective. These include the annual release of specifications to encourage interoperability and avoid market fragmentation as well as the development of new features and device interoperability through test and accreditation events. VIRTUE (VoLTE Interoperability Resolution Expediting Task Force) has also been refining specifications to reduce fragmentation in VoLTE implementation.

David O’Byrne, Project Director for IP Communications, says the GSMA is fully committed to facilitate implementation “through regular communication to manufacturers on global demand forecasts and implementation issues”.

Volumes of native devices are likely to continue to grow in 2016, driven by handset manufacturer reaction to the growing pace of Operator launches and demand for devices. This trend will be accelerated by the 2016 re-launch of RCS on native devices in South Korea and the advent of open market RCS-capable devices in several European markets, both delivered with GSMA project support.

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